Exploring Charlotte in 4 Days

  1. Day 1: Uptown Highlights
    10 minutes from Charlotte Douglas International Airport
    Estimated Time: 6 hours
    Estimated Distance: 25 miles

    Begin your trip with a visit to the Mint Museum Uptown, which boasts a stunning collection of American art, design, and crafts. Next, head to the Levine Museum of the New South to learn about the region's history. After lunch at Chima Brazilian Steakhouse, check out the interactive exhibits at the Discovery Place Science Museum. End the day with panoramic views of the city from the top of the Bank of America Corporate Center.

  2. Day 2: Charlotte's South End
    15 minutes from Uptown Charlotte
    Estimated Time: 5 hours
    Estimated Distance: 11 miles

    Start the day with a morning stroll through the Charlotte Rail Trail and then grab a coffee at Not Just Coffee. Next, visit the South End Historic District and check out the street art. For lunch, head to The Gallery Restaurant, which serves up an eclectic mix of American and Mediterranean cuisine. In the afternoon, explore Atherton Mill for shopping and culture. End the day with a pint of beer at The Unknown Brewing Co.

  3. Day 3: Arts and Culture
    20 minutes from Charlotte's South End
    Estimated Time: 6 hours
    Estimated Distance: 8 miles

    Start the day with a tour of The Harvey B. Gantt Center, which showcases African American art, music, and culture. Next, visit the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, which has a collection of more than 1,400 works by 20th-century artists. For lunch, head to Haberdish, which features Southern-inspired dishes. In the afternoon, explore McColl Center for Art + Innovation and end the day with a show at Blumenthal Performing Arts.

  4. Day 4: Parks and Recreation
    25 minutes from Arts and Culture District
    Estimated Time: 6 hours
    Estimated Distance: 15 miles

    Spend your last day in Charlotte enjoying the great outdoors. Begin with a visit to Freedom Park, which has walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. Then, head over to US National Whitewater Center for white water rafting, ziplining, and other outdoor adventures. For lunch, grab a sandwich at Common Market. In the afternoon, explore the scenic gardens of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. End the day with a beautiful sunset at Latta Plantation Nature Center and Preserve.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Mint Museum Uptown (2 hours, $15)
  • Levine Museum of the New South (2 hours, $10)
  • Discovery Place Science Museum (2 hours, $20)
  • Bank of America Corporate Center (1 hour, free)
  • Charlotte Rail Trail (1 hour, free)
  • Atherton Mill (2 hours, free)
  • The Harvey B. Gantt Center (2 hours, $10)
  • Bechtler Museum of Modern Art (2 hours, $8)
  • McColl Center for Art + Innovation (2 hours, free)
  • Freedom Park (2 hours, free)
  • US National Whitewater Center (4 hours, $60+)
  • Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden (2 hours, $15)
  • Latta Plantation Nature Center and Preserve (2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $158+

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Carowinds amusement park. If you have less time, opt for a quick tour of Uptown Charlotte and spend a relaxing afternoon at Romare Bearden Park.

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